Pictured above are two lighthouses. The one on the left is the Jeddah Light. Located in Saudi Arabia’s principal seaport, it is the world’s tallest lighthouse measuring approximately 436 ft. The one on the right is the North Queensferry Light Tower. At only 11 ft., it is the world’s smallest operational lighthouse and it sits on the pier of a small town in Scotland. If we were to compare these two towers side by side, this is what we would see (below). The object in the red circle is the Queens Ferry Light.

Considering the definition of a beacon (a light serving as a signal, warning, or guide), which one of these two structures is truly a lighthouse? Which one really matters to those needing navigational guidance? Of course, the answer to both questions is “both.” They may differ structurally, but these two towers share the same purpose. While the Jeddah Light was designed to signal ships along its 1,640-mile coastline, the Queensferry Light was designed to guide local ferries along the edge of a river stretching 29 miles in length.

I respect the ideologies behind the recent slogans that proclaim the value of human life regardless of race, sexual orientation, or profession. But I am convinced that they are not accomplishing what they were intended to. In fact, I believe they are causing more harm than good. But since they are rather catchy and seem to awaken some degree of awareness, please allow me to suggest yet another slogan, only that this one is aimed specifically at the Christian community. How about, “All Lights Matter”?

God is not a respecter of persons. His word declares that everyone is a sinner and destined to perdition, but it also affirms that anyone who comes to Him through faith in Christ is forgiven and receives the promise of eternal life. When Jesus said, “You are the light of the world” he was referring not only to His immediate followers but to His followers throughout the ages, which includes you and me and all those yet to believe. 

It’s not age, gender, social class, level of success, academic stature, theological knowledge, or even years in ministry that qualifies a follower of Christ to be a light to the lost. Nor is there a specific place to shine that light. Every believer is called to proclaim the Gospel message right where they are. Whether in a small town or in a big city, through a bullhorn or via the internet, whether rich or poor, educated or illiterate, young or old, we are ALL lighthouses for God. So, don’t let anyone or anything discourage you from shining your light. It may be by contending for your faith, sharing your testimony, taking the time to listen, or performing a simple act of kindness, but your light is just as important and effective as Billy Graham’s, Mother Teresa’s, John Calvin’s, Charles Spurgeon’s, and even the Apostle Paul’s. We may be different in more ways than one, but we all share the same purpose – to light up the world with the message of hope. So you see, to God, all lights matter because they all lead to Him. 

Prayer: Dear God, because you are no respecter of persons, your light has guided me to the cross where I have found my salvation. By your mercy and grace, you have now deposited that light in me so that I may show others the way to Jesus. Remind me that my light does matter so that wherever I am I may proclaim your truth with boldness. I rely solely on your Spirit for it is only through Him that you will draw the lost unto you. 

SCRIPTURES
“Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:” -Acts 10:34 (KJV)

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” – Romans 3:23 (KJV)

“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” -Romans 10:9

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” -John 3:16

“For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'” -Acts 13:47

-All Scripture is quoted from the NIV except where specified.